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[[preprinted]] 238 [[/preprinted]]

insufficient protection.

Where ever it has been possible, I have induced families and their near of kin to take their allotments in a body, so as to bring their land in a compact form, more easily fenced and protected; not to mention the benefits which will arise in the case of death and inheritance. Several of these groups are upon good farming land, and are desirous of opening up fields on their allotments, but the first thing needful is to fence their land. Barbed wire is absolutely essential. This costs money, which the Indians have but very little of, and have few ways of earning. In view of the benefit to be desired from fencing, and as an encouragement and incentive to farming with its more settled habits than mere herding cattle induces; I would respectfully recommend that a portion of the money appropriated to assist allotted Indians be expended for the Nez Perce Indians [[insert]] in purchasing barbed wire, [[/insert]] and that this wire be issued first to those Allottees who are upon Agricultural lands that they may be able to open farms this coming season.

Respectfully
[[signature]] Alice C. Fletcher [[/signature]]
Special Ind. Agt.